CRANES, CONCRETE, CONSTRUCTION ... AND COMPUTERS

The article discusses how, firmly entrenched in the design process, the computer is now touching all corners of construction. Applications include traditional project management, simulated 3-dimensional site planning and, perhaps, a linked database containing every detail of a project's history from conception through completion. Work at the Georgia Institute of Technology is described, in which a computerized method to organize the job site using visual simulation is being developed. It will provide 3-dimensional and real-time answers to questions like: how will earthwork removal integrate with rebar delivery? where is the batch plant placed in relation to the rebar? etc. Emerging automation technology will allow the tracking of documents and materials delivery, organize subcontractors, integrate CADD files, perform constructability reviews and actually 'build' on the screen. A concept known as computer integrated construction (CIC) is described, which would create a cradle-to-grave database of information on a structure's original design, as-built drawings, retrofit and maintenance history and finally, demoltion. A state-of-the-art system at Bechtel is also noted.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/10480594
• Corporate Authors:

  American Society of Civil Engineers

  345 East 47th Street
  New York, NY  United States  10017-2398
• Authors:
  • Tarricone, P
• Publication Date: 1992-6

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 44-47
• Serial:
  • Civil Engineering
  • Volume: 62
  • Issue Number: 6
  • Publisher: American Society of Civil Engineers
  • ISSN: 0885-7024
  • Serial URL: http://www.pubs.asce.org/ceonline/newce/html

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Automation; Computer aided design; Construction management; Databases; Information processing; Project management
• Subject Areas: Administration and Management; Construction; Highways; Materials; I10: Economics and Administration;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00622559
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jun 30 1992 12:00AM